Writing Skills

Mind-Mapping, Writing, Editing.

Mind Mapping does not result in a map that you can follow easily.   The premise for mind mapping   is the belief that it you get enough stuff down some of it will trigger new ideas and enable you to start   writing.  When you are mind mapping write down   whatever comes into your head but do it in short   form.

  The essential thing to remember at this stage in   the creative process is that there are no right or

  wrong ideas.  The best place to start learning   about mind maps is to go to the Tony Buzan site.

  Why? Tony Buzan is the  person who developed   the concept of mind mapping.   Mind Maps

  It is time to get down to writing.  If you were to interview a slate of well-published writers, you

  would find many approaches to getting started.  Suffice it to say that the best approach for you is

  what you find works best.

  Let's consider a hypothetical example.  Your teacher has given you an in-class essay.

  You have half an hour to write a three hundred word assignment entitled:

   The Best Man for the Job is a Woman

  Let's assume that you have no opinion what-so-ever about the topic.  How do you get started?

  Try something like this:  The idea that the best man for the job is a woman is an intriguing one.  I

  wonder what would happen if ... [do a quick mind map on the side and continue]

   Editing

Editing requires far more skill and schmaltz than does writing itself.  You should spend at least five percent of your total time editing.  Do not jump back and forth between writing and editing.

Stories by Students

Martian Crunch  by Minnie Teng - Grade 8

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